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2 HOOPS | SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

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2008-09 | HOOPS 3
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2008-09 hoops preview
2008-09
Hoops Schedule
Dec. 9 vs. Dexter, 7 p.m.
Dec. 12 at Novi, 7 p.m.
Dec. 16 vs. Northville, 7 p.m.
Dec. 19 vs. South Lyon East, 7 p.m.
Jan. 9 at Canton, 7 p.m.
Jan. 13 vs. Plymouth, 7 p.m.
Jan. 16 at Howell, 7 p.m.
Jan. 20 vs. Walled Lake Western, 7 p.m.
Jan. 23 at Walled Lake Northern, 7 p.m.
Jan. 27 vs. Waterford Kettering, 7 p.m.
Jan. 30 at Waterford Mott, 7 p.m.
Feb. 3 at Lakeland, 7 p.m.
Feb. 6 at Walled Lake Western, 7 p.m.
Feb. 10 vs. Walled Lake Northern, 7 p.m.
Feb. 17 vs. Waterford Mott, 7 p.m.
Feb. 20 vs. Lakeland, 7 p.m. COACH: DENNIS BUTCHER
Feb. 26 vs. Milford, 7 p.m. FIFTH SEASON
March 3 at KLAA Crossover, TBA.
March 5 at KLAA Crossover, TBA. 2007-08 RECORD:
7-15, 4-6
ASSISTANT COACHES:
JEFF MOHR, HARRY GLANZ
TEAM TRAINER:
MICHELLE MacPHERSON
Walled Lake Central Coach Dennis Butcher expects his Vikings to contend with Huron Valley Lakeland for the Kensington Lakes Activities
Association (KLAA) North Division title. A man-to-man pressure defense should spark an up-tempo transition offense for the Vikings. (Spinal
Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)
Central will lean on juniors

Western — Waterford Mott and each year,” he said. “It’s always a team,” Butcher said. “He’s quick and
Young, talented Kettering. We haven’t played Water- good challenge, always a good game he can get to the basket pretty well.”
Vikings lacking in ford Mott or Kettering in quite some
time. They weren’t in our league, so it
— a rivalry game with them. We’ll
play each game one at a time and see
The lone senior on Butcher’s
squad is 6-foot Jordan Anderson at
varsity experience will be interesting.”
Butcher said he believes Lakeland
what happens.”
The 2008-09 season brings some
guard.
“He’ll be called on to do a lot of
t’s a new season in a new will be the team to beat in the North new players to the Central varsity
I league for Head Coach Dennis Division this year, as they return a team.
scoring,” Butcher said. “He’s a tire-
less worker. He’s like the Energizer
Butcher and his Walled Lake host of players from a successful “We’ve got some very good young Bunny out there.”
Central Vikings. With a disappointing 2007-08 squad. talent but they don’t have varsity
2007 season now behind them, the The Vikings will also lean on soph-
“They have four if not all five experience,” Butcher said. “We’ll be
allure of a fresh start in a new league omore Justin Kucera, a 6-foot
starters back from last year,” he said. relying on our junior players.”
with less travel is quite appealing. guard/forward, and junior Jake
“They do a nice job and have a nice Joe Zubrickas, a 6-4 forward/cen-
Paulson, a 6-3 shooting guard to con-
“It’s a mega conference comprised team. I’d like to believe it’s going to ter, will handle the “paint work” for
tribute.
of four different divisions — North, come down to being between us and the Vikings.
South, Central and West,” Butcher Lakeland for the championship. “He’s a pretty good athlete who Butcher said he plans on running a
says of the new Kensington Lakes That’s our goal.” jumps really well,” Butcher said. straight up, man-to-man defense with
Activities Association (KLAA). “There In the same school district with “He’s key for us taking care of inside plenty of pressure and ball denial,
are three divisions of six teams and Northern and Central, Butcher said duties and rebounding and playing a which should lead the way to an up-
one division with five. Our division he knows plenty about the Vikings’ lot of roles.” tempo offense.
(North) is comprised of (Huron Valley) close rivals. Running the Vikings offense will The Vikings will open their season
Lakeland, the three Walled Lake “We know them all pretty well, be 5-11 point guard Joe Diamond. on Dec. 9 against Dexter. ❏
schools — Northern, Central and having to compete against them twice “He’s going to have to lead the — Mark H. Stowers
2008-09 | HOOPS 5
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2008-09 | HOOPS 7
Knights up for new challenges

Goal-oriented
Northern aiming for
city, division titles
he Walled Lake Northern
T Knights would prefer to use
more than one hand to count
their wins this year. And to do so they
are setting lofty team goals for the 2008-
09 season. COACH: PETE RABAUT
“One of our goals is to be the first
SECOND SEASON
Walled Lake Northern boys team to
beat a Walled Lake Central boys team,” 2007-08 RECORD:
said Head Coach Pete Rabaut. “And we 3-18, 2-10
want to win the city title. That’s never
been done here. And we want to com- ASSISTANT COACH:
pete in the division.” JOHN STEPEK
Playing in the new Kensington Lakes
Activities Association (KLAA) will bring
plenty of challenges to the young
Northern team, but Rabaut and his
Knights are up for the challenge.
“We were very young last year,” he
said. “We had an ugly first half but a
great second half from a competitive
standpoint. And we’re going to be much
improved this year.”
The player who may shoulder much
of the burden will be junior shooting
2008-09
guard Leroy Jackson.
“Leroy was our leading scorer last Hoops Schedule
year and should be our leading scorer Dec. 9 at Holly, 7 p.m.
this year,” Rabaut said.
Dec. 12 at Northville, 7 p.m.
Marshall Harris, a 6-5 junior, will
help fill the lane. Dec. 16 at Novi, 7 p.m.
“He plays inside and out for me Dec. 19 vs. South Lyon, 7 p.m.
depending on what we’re doing offen- Jan. 6 at Pinckney, 7 p.m.
sively,” Rabaut said. “He plays the post Jan. 16 at Hartland, 7 p.m.
but also has outside range. He can Jan. 20 at Waterford Mott, 7 p.m.
shoot the three, and he’s a nice combi- Jan. 23 vs. Walled Lake Central, 7 p.m.
nation player for me.” Jan. 27 at Walled Lake Western, 7 p.m.
The only senior for the Knights will
Jan. 30 vs. Lakeland, 7 p.m.
be 5-9 point guard Blake Soulet.
Feb. 3 vs. Waterford Kettering, 7 p.m.
“Blake really worked on his game in
the off-season,” Rabaut said. “He’s a Feb. 6 vs. Waterford Mott, 7 p.m.
great leader and he really committed Feb. 10 at Walled Lake Central, 7 p.m.
himself to basketball.” Feb. 13 vs. Walled Lake Western, 7 p.m.
According to Rabaut, he’ll rely on 6-4 Feb. 17 at Lakeland, 7 p.m.
junior Brian Johnston to handle the Feb. 20 at Waterford Kettering, 7 p.m.
hard work under the basket. Feb. 23 at Milford, 7 p.m.
“He led us in rebounding as a sopho-
Feb. 26 vs. Howell, 7 p.m.
more,” he said. “He really works the
March 3 at KLAA crossover, 7 p.m.
glass for us. He’s very physical and has
a mid-range jumper.” March 5 at KLAA crossover, 7 p.m.
The new league brings challenges
that the Knights are more than willing
to meet.
“It’s exciting for us to be in the Look for the Walled Lake Northern Knights to push the ball on the offense, which could lead to some high-
KLAA,” Rabaut said. “We’re in the scoring games. Coach Pete Rabaut says this year's team will use more man-to-man defense than last year.
North Division along with (Walled Lake) (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)
Western and Central and Waterford
Mott and Kettering, as well as (Huron measuring stick for the conference. Rabaut said the Knights will play a Northern opens the season at Holly
Valley) Lakeland just down the road “A lot of that credit goes to their lot more man-to-man defense than on Dec. 9. A difficult opening stint puts
from us.” coaching and to their two guards,” he last year and will push the ball on the Knights on the road for six of their
Like other coaches in the division, said. “They have a good backcourt with offense, which should lead to some first seven games. ❏
Rabaut said he sees Lakeland as the all-league players from last year.” high-scoring games this season. – Michael Shelton

2008-09
Hoops Schedule
Dec. 9 vs. Novi, 7 p.m.
Dec. 16 at South Lyon, 7 p.m.
Dec. 19 vs. Pinckney, 7 p.m.
Jan. 6 at Livonia Churchill, 7 p.m.
Jan. 9 vs. Northville, 7 p.m.
Jan. 16 at Brighton, 7 p.m.
Jan. 20 at Walled Lake Central, 7 p.m.
Jan. 23 at Lakeland, 7 p.m.
Jan. 27 vs. Walled Lake Northern, 7 p.m.
Jan. 30 at Waterford Kettering, 7 p.m.
Feb. 6 vs. Walled Lake Central, 7 p.m.
Feb. 10 vs. Lakeland, 7 p.m.
Feb. 13 at Walled Lake Northern, 7 p.m.
Feb. 20 at Waterford Mott, 7 p.m.
Feb. 23 at Howell, 7 p.m.
Feb. 26 vs. Hartland, 7 p.m.
COACH: DARRIN JENNINGS
FOURTH SEASON
2007-08 RECORD:
12-10, 5-5
ASSISTANT COACH:
AL INGMAN
The Walled Lake Western Warriors have embraced Coach Darrin Jennings’ new motion offense. The Warriors, who have two starters returning,
plan to press opponents with a man-to-man defensive scheme. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)
Western emphasizes hard work

said. “Defensively, we’re a man-to- because of his strength.” knows what to do with the ball when
Jennings says man team. We’ll full-court and half- Jennings described Sitto as a very he gets it, according to Jennings.
Warriors can be as court press you.”
Jennings said he’s looking forward
intelligent player with great court
sense, and a good ball-handler who
Key players off the bench include
junior shooting guard Andrew Wood.
good as they want to his team competing in the
Kensington Lakes Activities
has improved his shooting. “He’s a very good three-point
ith only two returning starters, Players looking to fill Western’s shooter. It doesn’t take him very long
W a young corps, a new offensive
Association (KLAA) North Division.
“We normally play (Kensington
voids include Evan Woods, a senior
transfer student who stands 5-8 but
to get a shot off and he’s just a natural
out there,” Jennings said.
system and a move to a new
league, Walled Lake Western is looking Valley Conference) teams as our non- has the agility of former NBA player Point guard Nick Lewin is a very
to surprise its naysayers. league games and now we’re together Spud Webb. good shooter with a nice range,
“I told the kids we will determine in the league,” he said. “I think it will “He’s got one of the highest verti- according to Jennings, and will be a
our destiny in terms of our work ethic be challenging. It should be one cals I’ve ever seen, near 40 inches. great compliment to Carey.
every day in practice and we can be as strong, powerhouse league.” He dunks everything he can,” Western will open the season on
good as we want to be or a rebuilding Western’s two lone returning Jennings said. Dec. 9 at home against Novi before
team,” said Western Coach Darrin starters are seniors and three-year Another player to watch is junior traveling to South Lyon on Dec. 16.
Jennings. “I asked them which path varsity players Edison Vushaj (cen- point guard Calvin Carey. The Warriors KLAA opener at
are we going to choose.” ter) and Ryan Sitto (shooting guard). “He has great ball-handling with Walled Lake Central is Jan. 20. Also
Jennings is giving the Warriors the “Edison’s fundamental skills have both the right and left hands, has scheduled are rematches against last
tools to work with, including a new improved quite a bit and I think he’s good court awareness, is an excellent year’s district playoff foes Hartland
motion offense, a departure from the going to bring some leadership to us, passer and a great up-and-coming (Feb. 26 at home) and at Brighton
set plays they previously ran. as well,” Jennings said. “He’s going to defender,” Jennings said. (Jan. 16). ❏
“The kids already love it,” Jennings be really tough to deal with inside Marcus Sanders, a 6-2 junior, — Michael Shelton
2008-09 | HOOPS 9
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2008-09
Hoops Schedule
Dec. 9 vs. Livonia Franklin, 7 p.m.
Dec. 16 vs. Rochester, 7 p.m.
Dec. 30 at Westland John Glenn Classic, 1 p.m.
Jan. 9 vs. Hartland, 7 p.m.
Jan. 16 at Pinckney, 7 p.m.
Jan. 23 vs. Waterford Mott at Oakland University, 8 p.m.
COACH: BRIAN TASS Feb. 3 at Walled Lake Northern, 7 p.m.
FOURTH SEASON
Feb. 10 vs. Waterford Mott, 7:30 p.m.
2007-08 RECORD: Feb. 13 vs. Walled Lake Central, 7 p.m.
8-13, 7-5 Feb. 17 at Walled Lake Western, 7 p.m.
ASSISTANT COACH: Feb. 23 at Hartland, 7 p.m.
JAYSON COMBS Feb. 26 vs. Brighton, 7 p.m.
The Waterford Kettering Captains will begin the 2008-09 season with four straight home games. Coach Brian Tass will use an up-tempo, pene-
tration offense and an aggressive half-court defense this season. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)
Captains like chances in KLAA

this season will be the play of center he’ll be a threat all over the place. “He’s developing and should have
Tass says Kettering Kevin Truitt and point guard Scott “These seniors were the freshmen his best year this year,” Tass said.
will be able to win Rodgers, both seniors.
“They are both scorers, handle the
four years ago and have developed
nicely,” he said. “They are basketball
Also on the radar is junior point
guard Zac Lizotte, whom Tass said
in new league ball well and are very good defend-
ers,” Tass said. “I thought last year
lovers who love to win and hate to
lose. It will be fun to coach these
may see time at a wing position.
“We’re looking to play an up-tempo
fter finishing below .500 in the
A tough Oakland Activities
they improved as the season went on.
This year they should be more consis-
guys.”
Junior Kendall Smith will see time
offense and try to penetrate quite a
bit,” Tass said. “We’ll also play some
Association (OAA) Division III tent because they had a great sum- at both the guard and forward posi- aggressive half-court defense.”
last season, Waterford Kettering is mer. They were both on travel AAU tions. The Captains will open the season
looking to make noise in the new teams and were in the gym as long as “He played as a sophomore last with a four-game homestand begin-
Kensington Lakes Activities it was open.” year and scored about seven points a ning Dec. 9 against Livonia Franklin.
Association (KLAA). Also expected to step up is senior night,” Tass said. “We’re expecting a Kettering’s first KLAA matchup
“I think we can win against every forward Kiril Valtchev, a two-year var- more diversified game from him, and will be on Jan. 20 at Huron Valley
team in the conference — there’s a lot sity starter. for him to dribble drive. He’s also a Lakeland. The Captains’ first meeting
of equalness,” said Kettering Coach “He’s an excellent athlete who can pretty good shooter.” against arch-rival Waterford Mott will
Brian Tass. “We’ll make a run this score inside and outside,” Tass said. The Captains are expecting big be played on Jan. 23 at Oakland
year.” “I like the fact that he got better things from senior guard Tim University. ❏
The key to the Captains’ success defensively and if he improves his shot, Viravouth, a two-year varsity player. — Michael Shelton
2008-09 | HOOPS 11
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Mott ‘not real big,’ but athletic

Corsairs will push
ball up court due to
relatively small size 2008-09
A
fter falling in last year’s district
final to Clarkston, the Waterford
Hoops Schedule
Mott Corsairs look to go one step Dec. 9 vs. Milford, 7 p.m.
further this season. Dec. 12 vs. Grand Blanc, 7 p.m.
With a 5-5 league record last season Dec. 16 at Ferndale, 7 p.m.
in the Oakland Activities Association Dec. 29 at Westland John Glenn Classic, TBA.
(OAA) Division 3, Mott will now play in Jan. 9 at Thurston, 7 p.m.
the Kensington Lakes Activities Associa-
Jan. 12 at Rochester, 7 p.m.
tion (KLAA), where the Corsairs will be
Jan. 20 vs. Walled Lake Northern, 7 p.m.
in the North Division with rival Waterford
Kettering and other area schools. Jan. 23 vs. Waterford Kettering at Oakland University, 8 p.m.
“We’re looking to make a statement Jan. 27 vs. Lakeland, 7 p.m.
in our first year in the new league and Jan. 30 vs. Walled Lake Central, 7 p.m.
we’re excited to establish some close- Feb. 3 at Walled Lake Western, 7 p.m.
to-home rivalries,” said Mott Coach Feb. 6 at Walled Lake Northern, 7 p.m.
Derek Wiley. Feb. 10 at Waterford Kettering, 7 p.m.
Leading the charge for Mott this sea- Feb. 13 at Lakeland, 7 p.m.
son will be 6-5 senior center Troy Taylor.
Feb. 17 at Walled Lake Central, 7 p.m.
“He played the post last year, and he
Feb. 20 vs. Walled Lake Western, 7 p.m.
improved his outside game and can play
the perimeter more,” Wiley said. Feb. 23 at Brighton, 7 p.m.
Junior John Schaeffer will man the Feb. 26 vs. Pinckney, 7 p.m.
point guard position after starting as a March 3 at KLAA Crossover, TBA.
sophomore last season. March 5 at KLAA Crossover, TBA.
“As the year went on, he got better
and better and hopefully he’ll score
more,” Wiley said.
The third starter will be junior for-
ward Jake Wardach, whom Wiley con-
siders a role player.
“He does all the little things and
needs to continue rebounding and play
defense,” he said.
Also expected to step up is senior
Marc Pressley, who is coming off a stel-
lar season at running back for the Mott
varsity football team.
“Marc is quite the athlete. He start-
ed a little bit for us last year,” Wiley said
COACH: DEREK WILEY
of Pressley, who will play mostly center
as a sixth man. “We’re looking for big FOURTH SEASON
things from him and he needs to give
2007-08 RECORD:
his best effort all the time. He has taken
on a leadership role during the football 14-8, 5-5
season.”
Also returning is junior guard ASSISTANT COACHES:
Emmanuel Simpson, who made the var- JEFF JAYSON
sity squad as a sophomore last season
CHARLIE SHIRES
and will be looked to as another sixth
man off the bench.
“We’re trying more of an up-tempo
game because we’re not real big, but
we’re athletic,” Wiley said. “We’ll play a
full-court press defense and we’re look-
ing to push the ball on offense.”
Mott will open the season at home The Corsairs of Waterford Mott want to make a statement in their first year playing in the Kensington Lakes
on Dec. 9 against Milford and will then Activities Association, according to Coach Derek Wiley. A game against rival Waterford Kettering at Oakland
face Grand Blanc on Dec. 12. The University will be a season highlight. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)
Corsairs’ KLAA North Division opener
will be on Jan. 20 against Walled Lake their Kettering rivals, including Jan. 23 Battle,’” Wiley said of the game at OU. it as much as we can. We’re hoping for
Northern. at Oakland University (OU). “It has been in the works since last a big turnout.” ❏
The Corsairs will tangle twice with “It’s being called ‘The Backyard year and we’re going to try to promote — Michael Shelton
2008-09 | HOOPS 13
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2008-09
Hoops Schedule
Dec. 10 vs. Michigan School for the Deaf, 7:30 p.m.
Dec. 12 vs. Oakland Christian, 7:30 p.m.
Dec. 18 at Loyola, TBA.
Dec. 19 at Roeper, 7:30 p.m.
Jan. 9 at Conner Creek East, 7 p.m.
Jan. 13 vs. TBA.
Jan. 16 at Mt. Carmel, 7 p.m.
Jan. 20 at Riverview Gabriel Richard, TBA.
Jan. 23 vs. Cardinal Mooney, 7:30 p.m.
Jan. 27 vs. Cabrini, 7:30 p.m.
Jan. 30 vs. Urban Lutheran, 7:30 p.m.
Feb. 3 vs. Franklin Road Christian, 7:30 p.m.
COACH: JODY PARADIS
Feb. 5 at West Bloomfield Jewish Academy, TBA.
FOURTH SEASON
Feb. 10 vs. Riverview Gabriel Richard, 7:30 p.m.
Feb. 13 at Cardinal Mooney, 7:30 p.m. 2007-08 RECORD:
Feb. 17 at Cabrini, TBA. 7-13, 1-7
Mar. 3 at Holly, 7:30 p.m.
ASSISTANT COACH:
GREG ALVIS
TEAM TRAINER:
DAN SELAHOWSKI
Our Lady of the Lakes Coach Jody Paradis will spread the floor with a five-guard, attack-the-basket offense. The Lakers will employ a full-court
pressing defense to disrupt opponents. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)
Young, small and hopeful

ior point guard, will be relied upon considerably as a junior,” Paradis offense,” Paradis said. “We’ll run a lot
Our Lady will rely on heavily. said. “He’s very mobile and has a of back cuts and back screens.”
underclassmen “He has a ton of experience,”
Paradis said. “He started probably 10
very positive attitude. He’s one of
those ‘run-through-a-brick-wall’ kids.”
Defensively, the Lakers hope to
create havoc with a full-court pressing
and a sole senior games as a sophomore and I actually
think he’ll be one of the top players in
One sophomore who’ll come off defense.
The Lakers are competing in the
ith youth comes hope. And after the bench will be Austin Karbowski.
W a season where losses nearly
the league this year. He’s solid and
very quick and will be a tough match-
According to Paradis, the 5-11 shooter
has worked hard to help the team.
tough Catholic League East Division
against Cabrini, Riverview Gabriel
doubled wins, the Lakers of
up for anyone.” Richard and Marine City Cardinal
Our Lady of the Lakes are quite hope- “He can shoot the threes and he
Derrick Sant will spend time at the Moody.
ful. has a very high basketball IQ,” he
two guard spot. “I give the edge to Cardinal
Coming off of a tough 2007-08 sea- said. “He did a lot for us in our team
“He has a real good basketball IQ Moody,” Paradis said. “They’ve got a
son, the Lakers will put a young team camp this summer against varsity
and has great fundamentals,” Paradis couple of post players returning. One
on the court for 2008-09. athletes as a freshman. Once he
said. was All-Catholic League last year.
“I had a very senior-oriented team catches up physically and gains some
The team’s lone senior, Connor They have a lot of experience return-
last year with seven or eight seniors,” strength, he’s really going to blossom
Spence, is a 5-10 point guard. ing. From there it’s probably a toss up
said Head Coach Jody Paradis. “So I’ve in to a varsity player. He’s a pure
“We have a very small line-up so between us and Cabrini.”
got a very young team this year. I had he’ll see a lot of time at the three shooter.” Our Lady opens the season on
to bring up some kids off of the junior guard,” Paradis said. Due to their small size, the Lakers Dec. 10 with a visit from Flint but is
varsity last year due to injuries.” The Lakers will rely on 6-3, 250- will put a five-guard offense on the looking at the Dec. 12 home game
This year’s varsity roster is made pound Shawn Mersino to hold down floor this year. against Oakland Christian as a “true
up of three sophomores, seven juniors the post. “We are going to spread the floor season opener.” ❏
and a lone senior. John Kroll, a 6-1 jun- “I think he’s going to contribute and have an attack-the-basket type of — Mark H. Stowers
2008-09 | HOOPS 15
COACH: BOB BRUGGER

TENTH SEASON
2007-08 RECORD:
18-4, 12-2
ASSISTANT COACHES:
TODD KALMBACH
PHIL FUGATE 2008-09
CURTIS ETHERTON
Hoops Schedule
Dec. 9 vs. Lake Orion, 7 p.m.
Dec. 16 vs. Birmingham Groves, 7 p.m.
Dec. 19 vs. Howell, 7 p.m.
Dec. 26 at Motor City Roundball Classic, 7 p.m.
Dec. 29 at Motor City Roundball Classic, 5:15 p.m.
Jan. 6 at Pontiac Notre Dame Prep, 7:30 p.m.
Jan. 16 at Milford, 7 p.m.
Jan. 27 at Waterford Mott, 7 p.m.
Feb. 6 at Waterford Kettering, 7 p.m.
Feb. 23 at Pinckney, 7 p.m.
Mar. 3 at KLAA Crossover, TBA.
Lakeland’s guard-oriented offense won’t be boring to watch this season, according to Coach Bob Brugger. He said his team will spread the court
and use its quickness during possessions. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)
Eagles tapping hunger, anger

the district semi-finals by Walled but also huddles, time outs and prac- Also expected to step up is sopho-
Lakeland has four Lake Central. tice,” Brugger said. “Senior leader- more guard Josh Fugate, Michael’s
starters returning Now Lakeland looks to take
charge in the new Kensington Lakes
ship is very important. Mike and
Blake’s main job is to not allow us to
brother, whom Brugger regards as
having a high basketball IQ and as
for this season Activities Association (KLAA) North
Division.
be complacent.”
Senior forward Brett Burmeister
one of the team’s best shooters.
Senior Justin Rall, at 6-2, is expect-
ith four returning starters and “I’m in favor of change,” Brugger was named to the All-KVC Second ed to be an important role player off
W the memory of last year’s exit said. “Sometimes it gets stale when Team last season, while senior guard the bench and play aggressive
in the district playoffs still fresh you’re playing the same teams year in Matt Acitelli is the Eagles’ three- defense.
in their minds, the Huron Valley and year out, and I like the change in point specialist. Brugger said Lakeland’s offense is
Lakeland Eagles are on a mission for terms of playing some Waterford “If you leave one of those guys very guard-oriented and will spread
championship banners this season. schools and Walled Lake schools.” open, they can nail the three,” the court.
“Hopefully that will make us hungri- The focus for Lakeland will be sen- Brugger said. “They are guys that “You will not see our offense stand-
er and angrier, because we have a bad ior guards Michael Fugate and Blake will open up lanes for Mike and ing still, and it won’t be boring,” he
taste in our mouths,” said Lakeland Heiman. Blake. So you have to guard them. said. “There are not many teams in
Coach Bob Brugger. Fugate was the 2008 KVC Player of It’s a nice mesh.” the county quicker than us and we’re
“If we play smart, hard and togeth- Year who averaged 19 points and Junior Eric Palanca stands 6-4 going to use that to our advantage.”
er, we’ll be a very tough team to beat. I eight rebounds a game, and has a full- and is expected by Brugger to The Eagles will run a full-court
think if things don’t go well, it will be ride scholarship to play at Saginaw rebound, play tough defense, and defense. Brugger said ball pressure is
because we were our own worst ene- Valley State University. then have the ability to score off pen- the No. 1 goal on the defensive end.
mies.” Heiman was named to the 2008 etration from the guards. “We’re going to make it miserable
The Eagles finished 18-4 last sea- All-KVC First Team by averaging 16 “He has a lot of potential, good for the opposing team’s ballhandlers,
son, but finished second in the points and seven rebounds a game. hand-eye coordination, a good basket- get in the passing lanes, and get some
Kensington Valley Conference (KVC) “This is their team and it’s their ball body and can get some garbage steals,” he said. ❏
behind Novi and was knocked out in time not only to lead the stat sheets, buckets for us,” Brugger said. — Michael Shelton

2008-09 COACH: CHIP LUTZ

Hoops Schedule SECOND SEASON
Dec. 9 at Waterford Mott, 7 p.m.

2007-08 RECORD:
Dec. 12 at Livonia Franklin, 7 p.m. 7-14, 4-10
Dec. 29 vs. South Lyon East at The Palace, 3 p.m.
Jan. 9 at Hazel Park, 7 p.m. ASSISTANT COACH:
Jan. 12 vs. Farmington Hills Harrison, 7 p.m. MIKE STEVENSON
Jan. 20 at Hartland, 7 p.m.
Jan. 23 vs. Brighton, 7 p.m.
Jan. 30 vs. Burton Bentley, 7 p.m.
Feb. 3 vs. Pinckney, 7 p.m.
Feb. 6 vs. Hartland, 7 p.m.
Feb. 10 at Brighton, 7 p.m.
Feb. 13 vs. Howell, 7 p.m.
Feb. 17 at Brandon, 7 p.m.
Mar. 3 at KLAA Crossover, TBA
Milford Coach Chip Lutz wants his Mavericks to engage opponents by pressuring the ball on defense, and to run the floor with an up-tempo,
transition offense or a motion half-court set. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)
Mavericks happy to start anew

“He averaged 11 points a game Joey Miller, will be looked upon to use apply man-to-man pressure.
Playing in the KLAA last year and led us in rebounds,” his 5-10 frame on the defensive end of “We like to pressure the ball and
gives Milford a shot Lutz said. “He had the best free
throw percentage. He definitely has
the floor.
“He’s pretty physical,” Lutz said.
deny passing lanes,” Lutz said. “We’re
not a pressing team but in the half-
at fresh challenges the potential to score and we’re going
be looking to him a lot.”
“He’s a strong kid, he’s a good court we like to engage people and
he new Kensington Lakes defender, handles the ball well and is bring the pressure to them.”
Other Mavericks to keep an eye on
T Activities Association (KLAA) this year include seniors Art
tough off the dribble. He’s a dribble-
drive threat and he’ll surprise some
And with most pressure defenses,
Lutz will be looking to tune his offense
conference has realigned many Dreimanis, a 5-11 guard, and Ed
local schools and created new rivalries. folks this year.” to run.
Joynt, a 6-4 center.
But for some area teams, it’s also a According to Lutz, Hartland is the “We’ll be an up-tempo team,” he
“Art came off the bench for us last
fresh start. The Huron Valley Milford cream of the crop in the KLAA West said. “We like to run the floor and
year,” Lutz said. “He shoots the
Mavericks would rather forget their Division. score in transition or a secondary
three-point shot very well and he’s
2007-08 7-14 record and focus on the tough off the dribble. He’s probably “Hartland has to be the favorite,” break. In our halfcourt set we’ll run a
challenge of starting anew. our best defender, as well. And Joynt he said. “They are returning every- motion offense.”
“We graduated our top four guards, is a very ‘long player.’ He’s got long body. They’ve got a Division I The Mavericks open the season on
so we’re thin on experience,” said arms that make him a good rebound- prospect. Brighton will have a solid the road Dec. 9 at Waterford Mott.
Head Coach Chip Lutz. er and shot blocker. He’s a good team with a three-year starter at One season highlight for the Mavs will
But the Mavericks do return their defender and for a big guy he gets up point guard. We, Pinckney and Howell be a Dec. 29 game at The Palace of
top scorer from last season — Nate and down the floor really well.” will be competitive.” Auburn Hills against South Lyon. ❏
Kesto, a 6-1 senior guard. One newcomer, sophomore guard Defensively, the Mavericks will — Mark H. Stowers
2008-09 | HOOPS 17
Eaglets have set the bar high

St. Mary’s looking to
surpass last year’s
accomplishments
fter a memorable 2008 season
A that included a Catholic League
title, a city championship and a
regional crown, Orchard Lake St.
Mary’s will have to go the extra mile
this season to accomplish those same
COACH: GEORGE PORRITT
feats and more.
“I think to accomplish a lot we have NINETEENTH SEASON
to shoot well and play good defense, and
rebounding is going to be key because 2007-08 RECORD:
we’re not as big,” said St. Mary’s Coach 19-6, 6-4
George Porritt. “Our guards have to
rebound and we have to get loose balls.
We have good kids and they’ll play hard, ASSISTANT COACHES:
I’ll tell you that. It all depends on how KRIS DAILEK
fast we grow.” LEN KARSCHNIA
The center of attention for the
Eaglets this season will be senior for- TODD COVERT
ward/center Dion Sims, who is coming
off his first season since transferring
from the University of Detroit-Jesuit.
“He’s a big, strong forward that we
need to get the ball to, and he’s tough
around the glass,” Porritt said. “I think
2008-09
he’s improved his game and he’s bigger
and stronger than he was last year. The Hoops Schedule
focus will be on him but I think he’s
Dec. 9 vs. Berkley, 7:30 p.m.
ready for it.”
Sims is being recruited by numerous Dec. 12 at Ann Arbor Gabriel Richard, 7:30 p.m.
colleges for football and basketball and Dec. 20 vs. Saginaw at
is weighing his options until at least the Saginaw Valley State University, TBA
end of the basketball season. Jan. 6 at Flint Powers Catholic, 7:30 p.m.
Another U of D transfer, senior Jeff Jan. 9 at Davison, 7:30 p.m.
Jones, will make his debut this season Jan. 13 vs. Birmingham Brother Rice, 7:30 p.m.
for the Eaglets. Jan. 16 at Warren De La Salle, 7:30 p.m.
“He’s a slasher and I think he’ll help Jan. 20 at Dearborn Divine Child, 7:30 p.m.
us out,” Porritt said. Jan. 23 at Detroit Jesuit, 7:30 p.m.
The breakout player for the Eaglets Jan. 27 vs. Detroit Catholic Central, 7:30 p.m.
is expected to be sophomore Juwan Jan. 30 at Birmingham Brother Rice, 7:30 p.m.
Moody, whom Porritt said can shoot the Feb. 3 vs. Detroit Country Day, 7:30 p.m.
ball well and should be a big scorer for
Feb. 6 vs. Warren De La Salle, 7:30 p.m.
St. Mary’s.
Feb. 10 vs. Dearborn Divine Child, 7:30 p.m.
Also returning will be senior Suave
Lavallis at small forward and junior Feb. 13 vs. Detroit Jesuit, 7:30 p.m.
Gary Hunter at point guard. Feb. 21 at CHSL Quarterfinals, TBA.
“Gary has been the catalyst and is Feb. 24 at CHSL Semifinals, TBA.
the one who gets things going,” Porritt Mar. 1 at CHSL Championship, TBA.
said. “He’s very quick and puts a lot of Mar. 8 at Operation Friendship, TBA.
pressure on the other team’s ball han-
dlers.”
After seeing some action last season, A demanding schedule will provide a real challenge to the St. Mary’s Eaglets, as they try to accomplish more than
juniors Mike Furlong (forward) and last year’s successful team. Coach George Porritt said effective rebounding by his guards will be important this sea-
Evan Webster (guard) will be expected son. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)
to step up their game in 2009.
“Furlong can knock down shots and in. He said the Eaglets will run a pres- half-court defense at times, so we can against Ann Arbor Gabriel Richard and
we need him to rebound and play good sure-man defense. get the ball to Dion and make his a trip to play Saginaw, the two-time
defense, and Webster is a smart ball “We have to be a little more up- inside presence felt.” defending Class A state champion.
player,” Porritt said. tempo this year, we have to push the St. Mary’s will once again be tested “I look at the schedule and it has
Sophomore CJ Mwila is also expect- ball a lot more, because we’re going to by a demanding schedule that not only me worried because there are a lot of
ed to contribute at shooting guard. be playing against bigger people,” he includes Catholic League foes such as good teams,” Porritt said. “But, it will
According to Porritt, St. Mary’s main said. “We still have to do the little Birmingham Brother Rice and Warren be fun and interesting.” ❏
offense is a 41-set, which is four out, one things like take care of the ball, and De La Salle, but also a matchup — Michael Shelton

2008-09
Hoops Schedule
Dec. 9 at Birmingham Groves, 7 p.m.
Dec. 13 at Walt Keener Classic, 6 p.m.
Dec. 18 vs. Avondale, 7 p.m.
Dec. 26 vs. Detroit Southeastern at
Macomb Community College, 7:15 p.m.
Dec. 29 at Motor City Classic, 7:15 p.m.
Jan. 6 vs. Oak Park, 7 p.m.
Jan. 9 at Southfield, 7 p.m.
Jan. 15 vs. Lathrup, 7 p.m.
COACH: ANDRE WHITE Jan. 18 at Martin Luther King Classic, TBA.
Jan. 20 vs. Pontiac Central, 7 p.m.
SECOND SEASON
Jan. 23 vs. Northern, 7 p.m.
Jan. 30 at Clarkston, 7 p.m.
2007-08 RECORD:
Feb. 3 at North Farmington, 7 p.m.
15-6, 7-3 Feb. 6 at Oak Park, 7 p.m.
Feb. 13 vs. Southfield, 7 p.m.
ASSISTANT COACHES: Feb. 17 at Lathrup, 7 p.m.
GARY BLAKE Feb. 20 at Pontiac Central, 7 p.m.
Feb. 26 at Northern, 7 p.m.
STEPHON WAITES
Mar. 3 vs. Clarkston, 7 p.m.
LAVELL RIVERS Mar. 5 vs. North Farmington, 7 p.m.
West Bloomfield Coach Andre White expects his Lakers to play better on both ends of the court this season. The Lakers will use a full-court, man-to-
man defense and hope to convert easy baskets on transition. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)
Schedule to challenge Lakers

season, North Farmington. forward positions. his game,” White said.
West Bloomfield “Our division is probably the tough- “He’s a very good player and his The Lakers have a possible break-
must play well to est in the state,” White said. “We’ll
have to play our best every night, but I
game has blossomed,” White said.
“He’s improved his ball handling and
out player in senior guard Eric Ellis.
“He’s really going to help us,”
contend in OAA think we’ll have a chance.” his shooting.” White said. “He’s an outstanding ath-
lete who is really quick and can
fter finishing with an impres- West Bloomfield lost All-OAA White said Antwaan has improved
A sive 15-6 record under first- First-Team selections Rodrick Hurst
and Josh Eichelberger to graduation,
his shooting, but needs to work on his
ball handling and decision-making.
defend and score.”
Joining the Lakers is 6-3 junior
year coach Andre White, the
West Bloomfield Lakers look to take it but will be led by 6-7 senior Mike Also expected to come back David Toole, a transfer from Warren
to a higher level this season. Martin, who has committed to play at improved is senior guard Tyler Woods-Tower.
“Last year was a process of them Alcorn State in Mississippi next year. Sarter. “He’s an outstanding athlete, he
getting to know me and this year I “He’s an outstanding defensive “Last year he was thrown into the just needs to be more fundamentally
think they understand my philosophy player who can rebound and he runs fire and was trying to learn,” White sound,” White said.
and know what I want,” White said. “I the floor extremely well,” White said. said. “This year I think he has a bet- West Bloomfield looks to play a full-
expect them to play better defensively “He needs to use his footwork all the ter understanding when it comes to court, man-to-man defense and hopes
and offensively.” time on the offensive end.” leading the team.” it will create a lot of easy baskets and
The Lakers will again have their Also returning to the Lakers for Chris Hurst, a 6-3 senior, is also a lot of breaks on transition.
hands full in the tough Oakland their senior year are the Credit broth- expected to see more action after The Lakers open the season on
Activities Association (OAA) Division I ers, Antonio and Antwaan. starting for half of last season. Dec. 9 at Birmingham Groves. Their
against foes like Pontiac Northern, At 6-6, Antonio averaged 6.6 “He’s grown about a couple inch- home opener is Dec. 18 against
Clarkston, and the team that eliminat- rebounds per game last season and es. He’s very explosive, has great ath- Auburn Hills Avondale. ❏
ed them from the district playoffs last will split time between the center and letic ability and is more consistent in — Michael Shelton
2008-09 | HOOPS 19
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2008-09
Hoops Schedule
Dec. 2 vs. Westland John Glenn, 7 p.m.
Dec. 4 at South Lyon East, 7 p.m.
Dec. 9 vs. Waterford Mott, 7 p.m.
Dec. 11 at Walled Lake Western, 7 p.m.
Dec. 12 vs. Wayne Memorial, 7 p.m.
Dec. 29 vs. South Lyon East at The Palace, 1 p.m.
Jan. 6 at Farmington Hills Harrison, 7 p.m.
Jan. 13 vs. Walled Lake Central, 7 p.m.
Jan. 20 at Hartland, 5:30 p.m. COACH: DON PALMER
Jan. 23 at Brighton, 7 p.m.
THIRTY-SECOND SEASON
Jan. 27 vs. Howell, 7 p.m.
Jan. 30 at KLAA Crossover, TBA.
2007-08 RECORD:
Feb. 6 vs. Hartland, 5:30 p.m. 11-10, 8-6
Feb. 10 vs. Brighton, 7 p.m.
Feb. 13 at Howell, 7 p.m. ASSISTANT COACH:
Feb. 20 vs. Pinckney, 7 p.m. ROB STEVENSON
Feb. 24 at KLAA Crossover, 7 p.m.
Feb. 27 at KLAA Crossover, 7 p.m.
Milford’s Lady Mavericks intend to maintain the momentum established at the end of the 2007-08 season. Coach Don Palmer said his young but expe-
rienced team will get even better as the season progresses. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)
Milford young but seasoned

“We are a young team, but we score more this year. two weeks of the season,” he said. “We
Lady Mavs’ previous have some experience,” he said. “We The Lady Mavs have four sopho- need to win so that the girls feel good
supporting cast are looking for some of the younger
players to make a contribution quick-
mores, and all, with the exception of
one, have some varsity experience.
about themselves.”
Those early games include a meet-
taking center stage ly. Last year these girls were mainly a
supporting cast. Now we need them
Patience Santini was moved up to
the varsity at the end of her freshman
ing with South Lyon on Dec. 4. Other
teams Milford will be competing
ast season, Huron Valley to become major players.”
L Milford achieved a goal that
Palmer is also looking for his two
year.
“I think her time on the varsity
against are the other four teams in
their division of the new Kensington
hadn’t been accomplished since
returning seniors to elevate their play last season benefited her,” Palmer Lakes Activities Association (KLAA):
2002 — a winning season ending with
and provide leadership for the said. “Patience is a very explosive Hartland, Howell, Pinckney, and
an overall record of 11-10. The Lady
younger girls. This will be the third athlete in terms of strength and Brighton, the league favorite and win-
Mavericks won their last five league
year on the varsity team for both quickness, and we look for her to be a ner of the Kensington Valley
games before losing to Brighton, a
Mellissa Bageris and Taylor Prokes. strong inside player.” Conference (KVC) for the last eight
regional finalist, by only five points.
“Our team played very, very well,” Bageris led the team in three- Another sophomore who played a years.
said Coach Don Palmer. “The game point shooting last season, making 14 couple games with the varsity last Although his team is young,
went down to the last 90 seconds. We threes. Out of necessity, Bageris has year is Lindsey Bandyk. Palmer said Palmer said it will have a good chance
lost, but it was a good effort by our played point guard, but Palmer said he expects Bandyk will have a big at a winning season this year.
kids.” he hopes to move her to the shooting impact on the team as its point guard. “We may not be as good as we
Palmer said he hopes is players will guard position this season. “She has very good instincts for were last year, but we will be a team
be able to continue the momentum Prokes is a strong rebounder at the game,” he said. “She has all those that gets better as we go,” he said. “A
established last year and have another the post. She averaged about five intangibles that you can’t get from young team is always exciting
winning season. rebounds a game last year. Prokes coaching. It just comes naturally to because the one thing that is consis-
Although Milford has lost four sen- can also move out to the wing as she her.” tent is their inconsistency. And to be
iors who accounted for over 60 percent is a very good mid-range shooter. Palmer said he hopes to win early able to help them grow and succeed
of the offense, Palmer will have eight Both girls averaged about five in the season in order to establish as individuals and a team is very
players with varsity experience this points a game last year; however, some confidence. rewarding.” ❏
year. Palmer said he’s hoping they will “We have five games in the first — Angela Niemi
2008-09 | HOOPS 21
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2008-09 | HOOPS 23
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Lady Eagles have experience

Lakeland hopes to
improve defense,
finish in transition
uron Valley Lakeland finished
H third in the Kensington Valley
Conference (KVC) last year,
behind co-champs Brighton and Novi.
This year the Lady Eagles will be par-
ticipating in the North Division of the
Kensington Lakes Activities Association
(KLAA), making for an exciting and new
league schedule for 2008-09.
“All our division games will be tough
and important because it’s the first time
we are playing these schools with a title
on the line,” said Coach Mike Head.
“We’re excited to play our neighbors
twice a year for the division title as
opposed to the past when these were
only non-league games.”
In addition to division play, Lakeland
will still compete against rival Milford.
The Lady Eagles have a challenging
schedule for the first four games of the
season. They opened their season at
home against North Farmington, a
2008-09
Class A state semi-finalist last year, on
Dec. 2; and have games against Lake
Hoops Schedule
Orion, Southfield, and Howell to follow.
Dec. 2 vs. North Farmington, 7 p.m.
According to Head, the challenging
early schedule will give his team an Dec. 5 at Lake Orion, 7 p.m.
idea of how good it is and what it needs Dec. 8 vs. Southfield, 7 p.m.
to improve in order to do well in the Dec. 19 at Howell, 7 p.m.
new league. Jan. 6 at Birmingham Groves, 7 p.m.
Two things Head said he hopes to Jan. 9 vs. Pinckney, 7 p.m.
improve from last year are better exe- Jan. 12 vs. Notre Dame Prep, 7 p.m.
cution of the defensive strategy, and fin- Jan. 15 vs. Milford, 7 p.m.
ishing better in transition.
Jan. 20 at Waterford Kettering, 7 p.m.
The Lady Eagles have five returning COACH: MIKE HEAD
Jan. 23 at Walled Lake Western, 7 p.m.
seniors this season, as well as a return-
ing junior. Jan. 27 vs. Waterford Mott, 7 p.m. FOURTH SEASON
Senior guard Maghan Kunze is the Jan. 29 vs. Walled Lake Northern, 7 p.m.
2007-08 RECORD:
most experienced player and has start- Feb. 3 at Walled Lake Central, 7 p.m.
ed 65 games in a row. Feb. 6 vs. Waterford Kettering, 7 p.m. 11-10, 9-5
Jessica Duleba is also a senior Feb. 10 vs. Walled Lake Western, 7 p.m. ASSISTANT COACHES:
guard. According to Head, she’s the Feb. 13 at Waterford Mott, 7 p.m.
team’s most improved player. DAVE BROWNE
“Jessica has really committed her- Feb. 20 vs. Walled Lake Central, 7 p.m. MIKE LEITHEIM, MIKE HAND
self to becoming a contributor,” he said.
Feb. 24 at KLAA Crossover, TBA.
“She had a great summer, and while she TRAINER
can score from the outside, she has JEN KASEMEYER
been really aggressive inside the key.”
Head describes junior Amy Carlton
as a “sneaky, quick guard who can han- A tough schedule early on will help the Lady Eagles of Lakeland determine where they need to improve in order to
dle the ball in all situations.” As the make a splash in the new Kensington Lakes Activities Association (KLAA) North Division. Coach Mike Head has five
Lady Eagles’ best defender, Carlton will seniors and a junior returning for the 2008-09 season. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)
be a key component in Lakeland’s
defense. lead the Lady Eagles on the boards ented newcomers. Sophomore Head said it’s important that his
Another aggressive defensive player with her aggressive rebounding. Stephanie Lock will be a difference- players “are ready to battle hard each
is senior Kyleigh Leist, an outside scor- The primary point guard for the maker in the paint. Junior guard night, to play as a team, and to repre-
er who can be dangerous when she gets team will be senior guard Kelly Miller. Lauren Maxwell plays aggressively sent our student body in a positive
into a rhythm. “Kelly had a strong summer, and and is a competitive athlete. way.” If the Lady Eagles can do those
Bringing toughness and passion to she really leads our transition offense “She fits well with our mix of athlet- things, Head said he thinks the team
the court is senior forward Katie by pushing the ball up the court,” ic guards, and she can really light it up will be a significant presence in the
O’Leary. This will be O’Leary’s fourth Head said. from the outside,” Head said. “But she KLAA. ❏
year on the varsity team, and she will Lakeland also has a couple of tal- is fearless when attacking the basket.” — Angela Niemi
2008-09 | HOOPS 25
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2008-09
Hoops Schedule
Dec. 2 vs. Avondale, 7 p.m.
Dec. 5 at Pontiac Central, 7 p.m.
Dec. 11 at Detroit Community, 7 p.m.
Dec. 16 vs. North Farmington, 7 p.m.
Dec. 19 at Southfield, 7 p.m.
Dec. 26 at Motor City Classic, 12 p.m.
Jan. 8 vs. Lathrup, 7 p.m.
Jan. 13 vs. Rochester, 7 p.m.
Jan. 16 vs. Northern, 7 p.m.
Jan. 18 at Martin Luther King Classic, TBA.
Jan. 22 at Clarkston, 7 p.m.
Jan. 27 vs. Lake Orion, 7 p.m.
Jan. 30 at North Farmington, 7 p.m.
Feb. 3 at Detroit Country Day, 7 p.m.
Feb. 5 vs. Southfield, 7 p.m.
Feb. 10 at Lathrup, 7 p.m.
COACH: STEVE LARKIN
Feb. 13 at Rochester, 7 p.m. FIRST SEASON
Feb. 19 at Northern, 7 p.m.
Feb. 24 vs. Clarkston, 7 p.m. 2007-08 RECORD:
Feb. 27 at Lake Orion, 7 p.m. 9-10
New West Bloomfield Coach Steve Larkin’s Lady Lakers will be ready to make a playoff run after being battle-tested by a tough regular season sched-
ule. In the meantime, the first-year coach said his team is focusing on fundamentals. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)
Lady Lakers look to surprise foes

Emelle McConney and Abby Maroko. Chenise Miller. This will be Miller’s Class B state runner-up Detroit
West Bloomfield’s “We are hoping to involve both fourth year as a varsity player. A Community in their third game of the
new coach likes Emelle and Abby more in the offense
this season,” Larkin said. “While
strong post player, she brings a wealth
of experience and is considering sever-
season and will play Class B state
champion Country Day.
team’s potential Maroko was not a starter last year,
she did have significant playing time
al college offers, including one from
Eastern Michigan University.
“These games will be good for us,”
Larkin said. “They will prepare us for
irst-year Coach Steve Larkin as a skilled shooting guard.” According to Larkin, Miller will be the state playoffs. Our conference is
F said he hopes his Lady Lakers That kind of experience will be a very integral part of the offense. also really talented, and every night
will be the dark horse of the important to the Lady Lakers, as they “We are going to get the ball to we will have to come prepared to
Oakland Activities Association (OAA) lost three of their starting guards to Chenise a lot,” he said. “At the same play.”
Division I this year. graduation. time we are also going to spread the The OAA competition includes
“As a brand new coach implement- “Our guards have confidence … ball around and get more girls, like state quarter-finalist Rochester, state
ing a new system and trying to build just not a lot of experience,” Larkin Abby and Emelle, involved in the semi-finalist North Farmington, as
the program, we want to be the team said. offense. well as Southfield Lathrup, which has
flying under the radar, the team that One of those confident guards is “We are going to work on funda- a lot of young talent.
surprises the others,” he said, adding sophomore point guard Kylia mentals,” he said. “There won’t be “Every week we will be playing
he has players on his team that have Peerman. A very quick player, any intricate plays … we master the someone very talented, and we have
been overlooked in the past but will Peerman excels as an open court, fast small things and everything else will to be prepared,” Larkin said. “I would
make a big impact this season. “Some break player. Diamond Murray and take care of itself.” rather have a tough schedule, as we
of our girls are underrated, and they Taylor Gunn are two others expected As for defense, the Lady Lakers will be battle-tested when it comes
will probably surprise a lot of teams to significantly contribute to the team. will predominantly run a 2-3, match- time for the state tournament. We will
with how talented they are.” While Larkin hopes other teams up zone and maybe utilize a trapping have seen some of the best in the
Some of the players that will be key won’t focus on those girls, he said he zone. state, and if we play to our ability we
contributors that other teams won’t be knows every team the Lady Lakers West Bloomfield has a difficult should be able to compete.” ❏
necessarily focusing on are seniors face will focus on senior forward schedule. The Lady Lakers face 2008 — Angela Niemi
2008-09 | HOOPS 27
2008-09
Hoops Schedule
Dec. 2 at Burton Bendle, 7:30 p.m.
Dec. 5 vs. Cranbrook, 7 p.m.
Dec. 9 vs. Oakland Christian, 7 p.m.
Dec. 12 at Connor Creek, 5 p.m.
Jan. 5 vs. Shrine, 7 p.m.
TBA at Cardinal Mooney.
Jan. 12 at Almont, 7:30 p.m.
Jan. 15 vs. Cabrini, 7 p.m.
COACH: STEVE ROBAK Jan. 19 vs. Riverview Gabriel Richard, 7 p.m.
SECOND SEASON Jan. 22 at Bishop Foley, TBA.

Jan. 26 vs. Notre Dame Prep, 7 p.m.
2007-08 RECORD: Jan. 29 at Father Gabriel Richard, TBA.
17-6, 6-2 Feb. 2 at Shrine, TBA.
Feb. 5 vs. Cardinal Mooney, 7 p.m.
ASSISTANT COACH:
Feb. 9 at Cabrini, TBA.
PAUL ROBAK
Feb. 23 at Franklin Road Christian, 7:30 p.m.
Feb. 26 vs. Webberville, 7 p.m.
Our Lady Coach Steve Robak has eight players, including five seniors, returning from last year’s team that made it to the regional finals. He said he
plans to let his Lady Lakers run motion sets this year so they can play to their strengths. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)
Our Lady’s expectations high

“We have very high expectations player, Robak can either shoot from iors, have a lot of experience, some-
Lady Lakers have for this season,” said Coach Steve the perimeter or drive to the basket. thing that Coach Robak hopes will
experience to Robak. “We want to win the league
championship and play the best bas-
“She’s not a one-dimensional play-
er. She can shoot, drive to the basket,
translate onto the floor.
“We let the girls play,” he said. “We
make playoff run ketball that we can in the state play-
offs. We have put in a lot of time and
or get the other girls involved with her
passing ability,” Coach Robak said.
don’t have a lot of set plays. Instead
we run motion sets and allow the girls
he Lady Lakers of Waterford work, and we think we have a team Other key contributors will be jun- to play to their strengths. Our added
T Our Lady of the Lakes finished that has a good chance at making a ior Alexis Doetsch and senior Taryn experience will be key in taking care
with a winning season of 17-6 strong run during the post season.” Stevens. Doetsch, at 5-11, will be an of the ball.”
last year. With only six losses, the Lady Leading Our Lady this year will be important presence inside the paint. That experience will be one of the
Lakers didn’t lose to many teams, senior Allison Robb and sophomore Not only will she contribute with her things that will help Our Lady with an
especially when considering that four Lauren Robak. Robb is a player with scoring ability, but Doetsch is also a intentionally difficult schedule this
of those six losses were to the same lots of experience, as this will be her strong defensive player and can con- season. Coach Robak said he hopes
team. Marine City Cardinal Mooney fourth year on the varsity squad. A trol the boards with her rebounding. the tough schedule will get his team
handed the Lady Lakers their only two very good spot-up shooter, Robb was Stevens, a guard, is a great out- ready for the state playoffs.
losses during league play, beat them one of the Lady Lakers’ leading scor- side shooter, and Coach Robak is hop- In addition to doing well in the post
for the league championship, and ers last season. However, she also is a ing that she will be an integral part of season, Our Lady would also like to
ended their season in the regional presence on the other end of the the team. win a league championship after fac-
finals. court. “We’re hoping that she will have ing difficult competition in the form of
The Lady Lakers are determined to “Allison is our team’s best defend- an excellent season this year,” he Allen Park Cabrini and — of course —
avenge their losses this year, and with er,” Coach Robak said. said. “She has worked really hard in Cardinal Mooney.
all eight girls on last year’s team The other leading scorer for Our the off season, and we are expecting The Lady Lakers began their sea-
returning, Our Lady should make a Lady last season was Lauren Robak. a lot of good things from her.” son at Burton-Bendle on on Dec. 2. ❏
strong run in the state playoffs. The Lady Lakers’ best all-around The Lady Lakers, with five sen- — Angela Niemi

2008-09
Hoops Schedule
Dec. 2 vs. Clarkston, 7 p.m.
Dec. 5 at Auburn Hills Avondale, 7 p.m.
Dec. 9 at Milford, 7 p.m.
Dec. 11 at Grand Blanc, 7 p.m.
Jan. 6 vs. Franklin, 7 p.m.
Jan. 13 at Pinckney, 7 p.m.
Jan. 23 vs. Waterford Kettering at
COACH: JESSICA COX Oakland University, 6 p.m.
FIRST SEASON Jan. 27 at Lakeland, 7 p.m.
2007-08 RECORD: Jan. 31 vs. Andover, 1 p.m.
10-7
ASSISTANT COACH:
DAVID WILSON Feb. 17 vs. Walled Lake Central, 7 p.m.
TRAINER Feb. 24 at KLAA Crossover, TBA.
KARA NICHOLS Feb. 27 at KLAA Crossover, TBA.
Four returning seniors, a returning junior, and promising newcomers will be led this year by first-year Waterford Mott Coach Jessica Cox. She said she
wants her Lady Corsairs to keep opposing offenses on their toes by playing a variety of defenses. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)
New coach takes over at Mott that is unmatchable,” Cox said. “I — not only within her own game but can shoot and take it to the basket,
Lady Corsairs have expect her to continue to grow and also in her ability to lead others. Cox said she plans to run offenses
size, can shoot, expand her skills during her last two
years here.”
Mott also has several promising
newcomers in Tiffany Coleman, Holly
that will play to those strengths. She
added that she likes to keep the
take it to basket Guard Porchea High is one of the
returning seniors, and Cox said she
Cooperrider, and Rachel Northey. opposing offense on its toes, which
will result in Mott using a variety of
or the past three years, Jessica Coleman, a 5-10 junior, will add addi-
defenses.
F Cox was the assistant coach at
plans to use her as a “defensive
weapon. Porchea’s defensive skills
tional height to the post position.
“Tif is a worker when she’s on the
As for goals this season, one of the
Augustana College in Rock things that Cox hopes to instill in her
are second to none.”
Island, Ill. Before that she played four court, and she doesn’t ever stop,” Cox
Center Katie Mundinger, at 6-1, girls is a love of the game.
years of basketball at the University of said. “I expect her to use her length,
provides some height. “I want the girls to take as much
Dubuque in Iowa. Now she’s in size, and quickness to her advantage.”
Michigan to continue her basketball “Katie knows how to defend her from it as possible,” she said.
Cooperrider, a junior guard, has
career as the new coach of the ground,” Cox said. “She is very “Basketball is a great sport, and it can
good court awareness that allows her teach you so much about life. Being
Waterford Mott Lady Corsairs. mobile in the paint and uses her size
to see the floor and understand what part of a team is an amazing thing. I
Cox has a wealth of knowledge to her advantage.”
is going on in the game. She also has want to get every last ounce of pas-
about basketball and said she wants to According to Cox, seniors Asia a good shot.
share it with her team, which has Rawls and Brianna McNeary will sion out of the girls, and I want to
Cox said Northey, a sophomore, teach them how to give more and that
many experienced players. bring leadership to the team. Rawls
has one of the best set shots she has they can push harder than they ever
Mott has four returning seniors this dominates at the guard/forward posi-
year, along with returning junior point tion with her athleticism and quick- ever seen. thought possible. I want them to truly
guard Desyree Thomas, who has ness. McNeary is also very quick “I expect over the course of the understand that if you want to go
speed, quickness, and a great sense of across the court, whether she is play- year that Rach will become a distin- where you’ve never been, you have to
court awareness. ing offense or defense, and Cox said guished shooting threat,” she said. do things you’ve never done.” ❏
“Des has a passion for this game she expects a lot from her this season Since the Lady Corsairs have size, — Angela Niemi
2008-09 | HOOPS 29
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Defense a key for Kettering

New league will
create fresh rivalries
for Lady Captains
aterford Kettering’s Lady
2008-09
W Captains managed to accomplish
what they set out to do last year
Hoops Schedule
— they won a district championship. Dec. 2 vs. Grand Blanc, 7 p.m.
However, it wasn’t handed to them.
Dec. 9 at Mercy, 7 p.m.
They first had to defeat Lake Orion, a
team that was ranked third in the state. Dec. 12 at Rochester, 7 p.m.
Then they had to beat cross-town rival Dec. 18 at Novi, 7 p.m.
Waterford Mott, who had claimed the Jan. 6 vs. Clarkston, 7 p.m.
district championship from Kettering Jan. 9 vs. Hartland, 5:30 p.m.
the year before on a last-second layup. Jan. 13 at Brighton, 7 p.m.
Kettering’s strong run in the state play- Jan. 16 vs. Pinckney, 7 p.m.
offs finally came to a close when they
lost to state quarter-finalist Rochester
Jan. 23 vs. Waterford Mott at Oakland University, 6 p.m.
in the regionals.
This year the Lady Captains would Jan. 27 vs. Walled Lake Central, 7 p.m.
like to win another district champi- Jan. 30 at Walled Lake Western, 7 p.m.
onship and be the inaugural winner of Feb. 3 vs. Walled Lake Northern, 7 p.m.
the Kensington Lakes Activities Feb. 6 at Lakeland, 7 p.m.
Association (KLAA) title. Feb. 10 vs. Waterford Mott, 6 p.m.
“We should have another really good Feb. 13 at Walled Lake Central, 7 p.m.
run this year,” said Coach Jim Batcha.
“We have some new pieces to the puzzle
this season, and we look to improve
defensively. If we have a great defense, Feb. 24 at KLAA Crossover, TBA.
we should have a great season.” Feb. 27 at KLAA Crossover, TBA.
Some of these “new pieces of the
puzzle” include Caitlin Cooperrider,
Sarah Stinson, and Julie Porter.
“We think that Sarah and Julie will
play big roles on our team this year, and
we expect Caitlin to be a big part of our
defense,” Batcha said. “She’s the best
defender on the team.”
Cooperrider is a junior that will split
time at point guard with returning sen-
ior Kailey Gueglic, a disciplined guard
who is very good at controlling play.
Gueglic will play a pivotal leadership COACH: JIM BATCHA
role along with the other seniors on the THIRD SEASON
team, especially post player Chandler
Levitt. 2007-08 RECORD:
“Chandler has a lot of experience
and will provide a lot of stability in game 9-14
situations with her leadership,” Batcha
said. ASSISTANT COACHES:
Alexa Henleser also will be a key AMANDA BATCHA
contributor to the team, as this will be
her third year on the varsity squad; and ALLISON SARTIRIOUS
Krissy Lavake is a diverse player who
can play any position on the floor and
will contribute a lot with her strong
rebounding ability.
Waterford Kettering’s 2008-09 team features some new players that should play big roles this season, according to
According to Batcha, it’s hard to tell Coach Jim Batcha. Their contributions, along with those by the veteran, returning players could result in another
which teams will become new rivals in strong post-season run for the Lady Captains. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)
the KLAA. However, he said he knows
the teams in Kettering’s division can the same division of the KLAA and is ly familiar with his team’s new compe- would realign every two years and play
play, as he was able to see some of them always a big game for the Lady tition, he said he’s looking forward to different teams. Now we get a chance
over the summer. Captains. This year both the Kettering being in the KLAA. to play the same teams year in and
Nevertheless, the only team that girls and boys teams will play Mott’s “We are excited to be in the KLAA year out and establish those long-
Kettering is really familiar with is cross- teams at Oakland University. because it will give us some stability,” standing rivalries.” ❏
town rival Waterford Mott, which is in Although Batcha said he’s not real- he said. “In the OAA Division I, we — Angela Niemi
2008-09 | HOOPS 31
2008-09
Hoops Schedule
Dec. 2 at Plymouth, 7 p.m.
Dec. 5 vs. Northville, 7 p.m.
Dec. 19 at South Lyon, 7 p.m.
Jan. 6 vs. Pinckney, 7 p.m.
Jan. 9 vs. Milford, 7 p.m.
Jan. 16 vs. Hartland, 7 p.m.
Jan. 20 vs. Waterford Mott, 7 p.m.
COACH: JOHN SHARPE
Feb. 6 at Waterford Mott, 7 p.m. SEVENTH SEASON
2007-08 RECORD:
Feb. 17 vs. Lakeland, 7 p.m. 13-8, 7-3
Feb. 24 at KLAA Crossover, TBA. ASSISTANT COACH:
Feb. 26 at KLAA Crossover, TBA. JACQUELINE PILKIEWICZ
Walled Lake Northern Coach John Sharpe and his Lady Knights aim to improve upon last year's 13-8 record. Sharpe said the team's chief goal is to win
the KLAA North Division crown, which will open up conference and association title opportunities. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)
Lady Knights still unsatisfied

record this year,” he said. “We also sion because they have a good combi- Sophomore Knight, at 6-feet, will
Last year’s winning want to win our division. It’s our most nation of experienced players with add some height in the post position.
season not enough important goal because if we win the
division, we get an opportunity to win
some new, young talent.”
However, the Lady Knights aren’t
The Lady Knights also have some
talented newcomers in senior Kelly
for hungry Northern our conference. We win that, and we
get to play for the association (title).
without their share of experienced
players. Senior captain Whitney
Gollota and freshman Juliette Love.
Gollota will come off the bench as the
ith four minutes to go in their But it all starts with our division Tower-Woods will play in her fourth sixth man and contribute with her
W first-round district playoff game first.” year on the varsity team and start as good shooting ability. Love, who is 6-2,
against North Farmington, The Lady Knights are in the com- the shooting guard. will also see some playing time.
Walled Lake Northern was leading by petitive North Division of the “Whitney is an all-around good “She shoots the ball very well,”
six points. While the Lady Knights ulti- Kensington Lakes Activities player,” Sharpe said. “She is very Sharpe said. “She’s not very aggres-
mately lost to the eventual state semi- Association (KLAA). This is the smart basketball-wise and is also a sive yet, but she will be.”
finalists, Northern Coach John Sharpe KLAA’s inaugural year, and Sharpe really good leader.” Northern will predominantly run a
said he was very pleased with his said he’s looking forward to partici- Also returning this year is 6-1 for- man-to-man defense while pressuring
team’s performance. pating in it. ward Carissa McKenna, a junior who the ball.
“We made a good run,” he said. “We “It’s going to be nice because most has started every game since she was “The girls play good help side and
just ran out of steam against a very tal- of the teams we play will be close to freshman. work really well with each other,”
ented, tall, and athletic team.” us,” he said. Brittany Gibson, Katie Hockstead, Sharpe said.
Sharpe had another reason to be Northern will compete against and Kari Knight will round out the On the offensive side, the Lady
proud. Northern finished with a 13-8 division foes Walled Lake Central, starting lineup. Knights will run a wide range of set
season overall, which was a vast differ- Walled Lake Western, Waterford Gibson, a junior, will lead at the plays with room to improvise.
ence from when the Lady Knights Kettering, Waterford Mott, and Huron point guard position and is a really “We are really excited for the sea-
went 3-18 the previous year. That does- Valley Lakeland. While the teams are good athlete, according to Sharpe. son to start,” Sharpe said. “We believe
n’t mean Sharpe and his team are con- all very similar in talent and size, Hockstead, also a junior, didn’t that we will be just as competitive in
tent with just a winning season. Sharpe said “Walled Lake Central is start last season but still led the team the KLAA as any other team.” ❏
“We want to improve on our 13-8 the long-odds favorite to win the divi- in scoring. — Angela Niemi

Central assessing new players

Lady Vikes will get
leadership from two
veteran starters
ith only two returning starters
W this year, the Lady Vikings of
Walled Lake Central will be a
mixture of young talent and experi-
enced veterans.
Central lost five seniors to gradua-
tion last year, including three starters.
However, four-year varsity player
Brooke Gustafson will bring experience
and leadership to the team. An all-divi-
sion player as both a sophomore and
junior, Gustafson is expected to lead the
team both on and off the court.
Another important player for Central
will be junior Krista Hakola, a third-year
varsity player and a captain who leads
the team both statistically and vocally.
“Krista will give us both an inside
and outside presence,” said Coach Rob
Schopf. “We’re expecting her to be a key
force as a scorer and rebounder.”
With quite a few inexperienced play-
ers, Schopf said the main goal for his
team is to just try to compete every
night.
“We have a slew of young, talented 2008-09
players, but as of now we are still trying
to decide where they fit best in the pro-
gram,” he said. “We have several young
Hoops Schedule
kids who are just coming out of middle Dec. 2 vs. Pinckney, 7 p.m.
school. It will be a shock for them when Dec. 5 vs. Dexter, 7 p.m.
they play in their first high school varsi- Dec. 9 at Northville, 7 p.m.
ty game. At this point we are just trying Dec. 12 vs. Novi, 7 p.m.
to see where everybody stands and Dec. 19 at South Lyon East, 7 p.m.
hopefully we will be able to find some
Jan. 10 at East Grand Rapids, 4 p.m.
sort of rhythm after Christmas break, in
Jan. 13 at Milford, 7 p.m.
time for division play.”
Central will be competing in the Jan. 16 vs. Howell, 7 p.m.
North Division of the Kensington Lakes Jan. 20 at Walled Lake Western, 7 p.m.
Activities Association (KLAA). The divi- COACH: ROB SCHOPF Jan. 23 vs. Walled Lake Northern, 7 p.m.
sion includes cross-town rivals Walled TENTH SEASON Jan. 27 at Waterford Kettering, 7 p.m.
Lake Northern and Walled Lake West- Jan. 30 vs. Waterford Mott, 7 p.m.
ern, Huron Valley Lakeland, Waterford 2007-08 RECORD: Feb. 3 vs. Lakeland, 7 p.m.
Kettering and Waterford Mott.
11-10, 9-7 Feb. 6 vs. Walled Lake Western, 7 p.m.
“We’re looking forward to playing in
the North Division,” Schopf said.
“Especially since all three of the Walled
ASSISTANT COACHES: Feb. 13 vs. Waterford Kettering, 7 p.m.
Lake schools are in the same division NEAL HOWALD Feb. 17 at Waterford Mott, 7 p.m.
now. It’s really exciting that we get to Feb. 20 at Lakeland, 7 p.m.
JEN McKITTRICK
play each other twice in the regular sea- Feb. 24 at KLAA crossover, TBA.
son.” JACKI BECKER Feb. 27 at KLAA crossover, TBA.
Schopf is also looking forward to
forming new rivalries with the
Waterford schools or re-establishing
them, as the case may be. Walled Lake Central Coach Rob Schopf said his team is looking forward to playing in the Kensington Lakes Activities
“I was told that in the past the Association (KLAA) North Division with Walled Lake Western and Northern. He said the new league will allow Central
Walled Lake and Waterford schools to re-establish old rivalries with Waterford Kettering and Mott. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)
were always big rivals and being able to
re-establish those rivalries will inject Brighton will be particularly good, as his back as the one to beat in the zone defenses.
some energy into the season,” he said. all three teams have a wealth of league,” he said. The Lady Vikings opened their sea-
As for the relative strength of the returning players. The Lady Vikings game scheme son on Dec. 2 at home against
rest league, Schopf said he believes “Coach Sharpe over at Walled Lake includes an up-tempo offense while uti- Pinckney. ❏
Lakeland, Walled Lake Northern, and Northern definitely has the bullseye on lizing a mixture of man-to-man and — Angela Niemi
2008-09 | HOOPS 33
2008-09
Hoops Schedule
Dec. 9 at Novi, 7 p.m.
Dec. 11 vs. Milford, 7 p.m.
Dec. 16 vs. South Lyon, 7 p.m.
Dec. 18 at Northville, 7 p.m.
Jan. 6 vs. Livonia Churchill, 7 p.m.
Jan. 13 at Hartland, 7 p.m.
Jan. 20 vs. Walled Lake Central, 7 p.m.
Feb. 10 at Lakeland, 7 p.m.
COACH: DAVE WALTHER

FOURTH SEASON
2007-08 RECORD:
18-4, 9-1
In order to prepare for their difficult division play, Walled Lake Western has scheduled eight very tough non-conference games. Coach Dave Walther
said his Lady Warriors are eager to learn and will be very competitive this year. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)
Lady Warriors are determined

enced what it was like to win both a of defending anyone in the league and fought battles,” Walther said.
Late season losses conference and district champi- contributes offensively by hitting In order to prepare for their diffi-
serve as Western’s onship, the Lady Warriors are full of
determination to meet those goals.
threes from the outside.”
The remainder of the team is rela-
cult division play, Western has sched-
uled eight very tough non-conference
motivation this year Among those returning are
Chelsea Hunter, Paige Partenio,
tively inexperienced; however,
Walther said they are “very eager to
games.
“We look forward to the challenge,”
alled Lake Western had an Alison Focht, and Amanda Schwandt. prove themselves on the court.” Walther said. “We have a group of
W impressive season last year. Walther describes Hunter as an On their quest to repeat as divi- very hard working players who are
The Lady Warriors went 18-4 “aggressive, hard-nosed player.” She sion champions, Western will have to eager to learn. I have confidence that
and won a division title for the first is a three-year varsity player and will compete in an extremely tough we will be very competitive this year.”
time in 25 years, but lost the confer- bring a wealth of experience to the Kensington Lakes Activities Western plans to run a very up-
ence title when Plymouth Salem made Lady Warriors this year as their cap- Association (KLAA) North Division tempo game both defensively and
a shot at the buzzer. Western also lost tain. that includes Walled Lake Northern, offensively. In addition to the aggres-
to Brighton in the last few seconds of Partenio is an athletic and aggres- Huron Valley Lakeland, and Waterford sive full-court pressure defense they
the district championship game. Those sive player who can play both an Kettering, all of whom are very talent- are known for, the Lady Warriors will
heartbreaking losses have led to this inside and an outside game. ed and have high expectations for the also run a multiple defensive system
year’s Western motto of “Unfinished Anchoring the front court are season. Another big game for the Lady that confuses and frustrates oppo-
Business.” Focht and Schwandt. Both play physi- Warriors will be Walled Lake Central. nents.
Coach Dave Walther would like to cally and have the strength to play Both Central and Northern are cross- As for their offensive scheme,
not only repeat as division champs this around the basket. town rivals, which means they will Walther said his team will push the
season but also win the conference and Also returning is junior guard always be big games. ball up the court and score quickly.
district championships, as well. Taylor Deskins. “No matter what type of season The Lady Warriors begin their sea-
He is not the only one. With four “Taylor is very aggressive defen- either of those teams are having, son against Novi on Dec. 9. ❏
returning seniors who almost experi- sively,” Walther said. “She is capable these games tend to be close, hard- — Angela Niemi

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The Original

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